Sports Bulletin

Our CorrespondentLAHORE: England Men have confirmed their XI for their opening match of the ICC Champions Trophy against Australia on Saturday in Lahore.Jamie Smith returns to the side, batting at No.3 and taking the gloves as wicketkeeper. Jofra Archer is selected alongside fellow seamers Brydon Carse and Mark Wood.England XI: Phil Salt, Ben Duckett, Jamie Smith (WK), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jos Buttler (C), Liam Livingstone, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid, Mark Wood

Sports Bulletin ReportKARACHI: The ninth edition of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will commence in Pakistan on Wednesday, 19 February, with winners of the 2017 edition, Pakistan, taking on New Zealand in the opening match of the tournament at the National Stadium in Karachi. The first ball of the match will be bowled at 2pm PKT.The eight-team tournament will be played across three venues in Pakistan – Karachi, Lahore and Rawalpindi – as well as in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE) from 19 February to 9 March. Pakistan is all set to host an ICC event for the first time since the ICC Cricket World Cup 1996, which concluded with the final at the Gaddafi Stadium, where Sri Lanka defeated Australia by seven wickets.In the lead-up to the ICC Champions Trophy, the three venues in Pakistan – Gaddafi Stadium Lahore, National Stadium Karachi and Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium – have undergone major upgradation, offering players and spectators world-class facilities.Pakistan enter the tournament as the defending champions, having beaten India in the final of the 2017 edition, led by Sarfaraz Ahmed. Fakhar Zaman was the player of the final for his imperious 114 off 106 deliveries, while Hasan Ali was named the player of the tournament for his tally of 13 wickets in five games.The eight participating teams have been divided into two groups with hosts Pakistan, Bangladesh, India and New Zealand pooled in Group A while Group B comprises Afghanistan, current ODI World Cup champions Australia, England and South Africa.Following their opening encounter against New Zealand, Pakistan will play their next two group matches on 23 February against India in Dubai and on 27 February against Bangladesh in Rawalpindi.In the group stage, three matches apiece will be played in Dubai, Karachi, Lahore and Rawalpindi.The first semi-final will be played on 4 March in Dubai. The newly-upgraded Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore will host the second semi-final on 5 March. If India do not qualify, the final will take place at the Gaddafi Stadium on 9 March, however, if they qualify, it will be held at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.Apart from winning this tournament in 2017, Pakistan has also reached the semi-finals of this competition on three occasions: 2000, 2004 and 2009.Pakistan captain, Mohammad Rizwan said: “A global event has come to Pakistan after 29 years, so I believe the entire nation is celebrating this historic occasion. There are no doubts about our performance, we have worked hard and learned from our mistakes. We hope that we play well tomorrow Insha’Allah. Our sole focus is on winning the tournament for the country and our people and we hope that we achieve the desired results.”Pakistan’s 15-player squad: Mohammad Rizwan (captain & wicket-keeper), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Kamran Ghulam, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, Salman Ali Agha (vice-captain), Saud Shakeel, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Tayyab Tahir and Usman Khan.

Islamabad (PR)Shifa International Hospitals Islamabad beat Green United Cricket Rawalpindi by 8 wickets in the Cricket match here at DPS Cricket Ground Rawalpindi.Shifa International Captain won the toss and invited to bat first Green United, Green United bowled out for 163 in the 23rd overs. Saad (46), Mustafa Rehan (27) and Imtanan (27) were the key contributors. Shifa International Syed Mudassar Bukhari bowled well and claimed 5 players out for 12 runs in 4.2 overs, Captain Ibrar Iklaq (2 for 32), Muhammad Ikram (2 for 34) and Malik Muneeb Akram (1 for 16) were the other main wicket-takers. In reply, Shifa International achieved the target in the 21st over for the loss of two wickets. Allrounder Muhammad Ikram 72 not out runs 54 balls with 13 fours and One six, while Haris 21, Imran Shah 20 and Captain Ibrar Ikhlaq 18 not out were their leading run-getters. Muhammad Ikram declared “Man of the Match” for his impressive Performance.

Sports Bulletin ReportLAHORE: Hosts Lahore overpowered Bahawalpur by 10 wickets in the final of the 7th LCCB Blind Cricket Tournament here at Aleem Dar Cricket Academy Lahore on Friday.Winning the toss, Lahore chose to field first, allowing Bahawalpur to set a big target. The Bahawalpur team showcased their batting prowess, finishing their innings with a competitive total of 254 runs, losing 3 wickets in their allotted 20 overs. Moin led the charge for Bahawalpur, with an impressive 161 runs off just 88 balls. He was well-supported by zafer iqbal, who contributed a vital unbeaten 46 runs off 37 balls. Aftab take 1 wicket for Lahore In response, Lahore batting line up rose to the occasion, successfully chasing down the target by scoring 258 runs for the loss wickets in a swift 16.4 overs. Badar Muneer was the star of the innings, delivering a spectacular performance with the bat, scoring 158* runs from 55 balls. He received solid support for sanwal, who added 82* runs off 46 balls. Badar Munir man of the match award.Player of the Tournament:* B1: Muhammed Ayyaz * B2: Moin Ali * B3: Sana Ullah Khan The event was graced by esteemed guests, including Ali Meer, Syed Sultan Shah (President of World Blind Cricket Ltd & Chairman of Pakistan Blind Cricket Council), Arshad Nadeem Olympian gold medallist, CEO Lahore Qalandar Atif Rana, Aleem dar international empire, Rashma Artist from Pakistani film industries and Tabish Hashmi.

Islamabad (Sports Desk): Pakistan players Shaheen Shah Afridi, Saud Shakeel and Kamran Ghulam have been fined for breaching Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct during their tri-nation series match against South Africa in Karachi on Wednesday.Shaheen was fined 25 per cent of his match fee after he was found to have breached Article 2.12 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which relates to “inappropriate physical contact with a Player, Player Support Personnel, Umpire, Match Referee or any other person (including a spectator) during an International Match.”The incident occurred in the 28th over of South Africa’s innings, when Shaheen deliberately got in the way of batter Matthew Breetzke as he ran a single, causing an inappropriate physical contact that also resulted in an argument.Saud and substitute fielder Kamran were fined 10 per cent each of their match fee as they celebrated too close to batter Temba Bavuma after he was run out in the 29th over of South Africa’s innings.Saud and Kamran were found to have breached Article 2.5 of the Code, which relates to “using language, actions or gestures which disparage or which could provoke an aggressive reaction from a batter upon his/her dismissal during an International Match.”

Islamabad (Sports Desk): England Men have called up Somerset batter Tom Banton as cover for the third ODI against India in Ahmedabad, which starts on Wednesday.Warwickshire batting all-rounder Jacob Bethell, who featured in the first ODI defeat in Nagpur, has sustained a left hamstring injury. The injury will be assessed further when the team arrive in Ahmedabad on Monday.Banton, who last played for England in an ODI in August 2020, has been in outstanding form in T20 franchise cricket. He is currently the leading run-scorer in the UAE ILT20 competition, where he has amassed 493 runs from 11 innings at an average of 54.77, including two centuries. He is set to arrive in India tomorrow (Monday).

Fakhar Zaman travelled to the ICC Champions Trophy 2017 without a single ODI appearance to his name. By the time he returned to Pakistan as a match-winner in the final, people were travelling hundreds of kilometres just to take a picture with him.The left-handed opening batter will make his return to the Pakistan team on home soil when the competition returns later this month, looking to recreate the heroics of eight years ago. In that tournament, he started out of the team, earned a one-day debut and went onto form the foundation of a final victory over India in one of the greatest days in Pakistani cricketing history. Even so, he was taken aback by the response when he landed back home.“It was special back in Pakistan,” he recalled. “I didn’t expect anything like that and I have never seen anything like that in my whole life. People were waiting for us. I was alone on the Peshawar flight, most of the guys were flying to Lahore or Karachi. There were thousands of people waiting at the airport. It took three to four hours to get out of the airport.“Then there were people waiting on the streets and on the roads. When I got to my hometown, the whole street was full of people. In our villages, we have a guest house and the whole guest house was full of people.“For many weeks, people from 500km or more away would come to take a picture. It was unbelievable and it was something special. The way we made people feel at that time, I wish I could do more things like that.”Fakhar did not feature in the first meeting between Pakistan and India, which India won by 124 runs, but was handed a debut in the second encounter against South Africa.He scored 31 off just 23 in that game as Pakistan stayed alive in the tournament with a 19-run victory at Edgbaston, a knock that is still right up there among his favourite in the format.He said: “In my head, I thought I would go and play positive cricket in that game and if something went wrong, then I would see for the next game against Sri Lanka if I changed. I scored 31 runs and it is still one of my favourite innings in my ODI career.“I didn’t feel that much pressure in the South Africa game. I felt more pressure in the Sri Lanka game. The first one was my first game and I wasn’t aware of what to expect. There were so many things going through my head, but I didn’t feel that much pressure.“There was more pressure game by game as we progressed.”While Fakhar went into the tournament with limited expectations, the Pakistan management and senior players never lacked confidence.And after they beat Sri Lanka by three wickets to reach the semi-finals, that belief started to filter through to the rest of the team that they were capable of going all the way.“Myself and Sarfaraz (Ahmed, the captain) played club cricket together in Karachi. We had a big tournament happening in Karachi just after the group stages. After the first game against India, I went to Sarfaraz and said ‘we will be playing in Pakistan’ and he said ‘what are you saying?’. He said ‘bro, we will go to Pakistan, but with the Champions Trophy’.“I was thinking looking at this man, he’s lost his senses, what is he saying? But the confidence of our leadership, Sarfaraz and Mickey Arthur, I didn’t think we would win but they would tell us every time that we would win, that we had to win.“The confidence in the leadership group, even after losing the first game, they were 100% confident that we would bring home the trophy. When we played Sri Lanka, the way luck was with us that day, Sri Lankan players dropped catches, and the way Sarfaraz played in that game, we knew that something great was coming.”Up against hosts England in the semi-finals, Pakistan’s bowlers were outstanding in Cardiff, shutting down the previously unstoppable English batters to set up an eight-wicket victory.That set up a final clash with India, the dream match-up for fans, but a meeting that Fakhar almost missed.“I was not well the day before the game,” he said. “I even talked to Mickey and said I won’t be able to play the game. He said you go out there and get a duck first ball, it doesn’t matter, you have to play that game. I managed to play but I remember that I didn’t sleep well that night and he forced me to play. I’m pleased he did!”Pakistan batted first at The Oval, and even though Fakhar did not feel like he was at his most fluent, he smashed a brilliant century, making 114 off 106 balls to set Pakistan on their way to 338 for four in 50 overs.That came after he had been given a reprieve when he was on three, caught off the bowling of Jasprit Bumrah, with a no-ball saving him.He said: “I had been talking to Shadab (Khan) and somebody got out on a no-ball when we were watching a game. I said ‘I’d love to get out to a no-ball’. I just said it randomly because whenever you get out, I always look to the umpire hoping they will say ‘wait while we check the no-ball’ and nothing happens and I end up back in the dressing room.“The same thing happened in that game, I got out to a no-ball. Kumar Dharmasena was the third umpire and I was going out. From the boundary, he said ‘wait there’. I was halfway back and when I saw that, I was 100% sure it was a no-ball. After that, I thought maybe it’s my day.”It certainly turned out that way, with Fakhar earning Player of the Match honours as Pakistan ended up winning by 180 runs, Mohammad Amir doing the damage with the ball as he tore through the dangerous Indian top order.That day is one that he will never forget, as he prepares to embark on his second Champions Trophy. And beyond the excitement of the day and the celebrations afterwards, it is the way the team came together in England and Wales that stands out.He concluded: “There are too many memories. The best memory for me was the way the team gelled, to become friends with Shadab, Faheem (Ashraf), Hasan Ali, we became really close.” (PR).

Lahore (PR): Pakistan opener Saim Ayub is progressing well in his recovery from a right ankle fracture and will continue his rehabilitation in England. Following comprehensive MRI scans, X-rays and medical assessments, Saim had been ruled out for 10 weeks from the date of injury (3 January). His availability for the New Zealand tour will be subject to clearing all fitness tests and medical requirements.Pakistan will tour New Zealand for five T20Is and three ODIs from 16 March to 5 April, which will be followed by the HBL Pakistan Super League, which starts on 8 April. 

The anticipation will be palpable at Galle International Stadium. The 2nd and final Test match against Australia is underway, and cricket enthusiasts from around the world have their eyes glued to the event. However, a noticeable absence hung in the air—the world’s highest Test wicket taker (800), Muthiah Muralidaran, would not be present to witness the thrilling showdown or hand over the Warne-Muralidharan trophy to the series winner."No, I won't be able to make it," the 52-year-old distinguished former right-arm off-spinner said over the telephone from Colombo. His voice was tinged with regret. "I am leaving for India this week to play a match against India's cricketers," he added, a note of excitement creeping in."Sathya Sai Grama is hosting a cricket match between Indian and Sri Lankan players on February 8, and being a devotee of Sathya Sai Baba, along with a few Sri Lankan players, I will be participating in the match," Murali explained. This match, hosted under the theme 'One World One Family Cup 2025,' was more than just a game—it was a celebration of unity and humanity.Muralidaran's ties to India ran deep. He married Madhimalar Ramamurthy, a Chennai native, on March 21, 2005. Madhimalar was the daughter of the late Dr. S. Ramamurthy of Malar Hospitals and his wife, Dr. Nithya Ramamurthy. This connection made Murali not just a son-in-law of India but also a beloved figure in Indian cricketing circles.The upcoming match at Sathya Sai Grama in Muddenahalli, Chikkaballapur district, promised to be a spectacle. Last year, during the first edition of the 'One World One Family Cup,' cricket legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Yuvraj Singh had captained the teams, which comprised players from seven nations. This year, the format is different. Retired greats from India and Sri Lanka are reuniting on the field, playing for the cause of humanity."Our team will be led by Aravinda de Silva," Murali revealed. Alongside him, Chaminda Vass, Marvan Atapattu, Kalu, Ajanta Mendis, and a few others would represent Sri Lanka. The Indian team, coordinated by GR Vishwanath, includes the Pathan Brothers—Irfan and Yousuf—Venkatesh Prasad, Sunil Joshi, and others from Karnataka State. Although Vishy wasn't playing, his presence was crucial to the coordination of players.As the sun rises on Galle International Stadium, fans know that Muthiah Muralidaran's absence is for a noble cause. His commitment to the 'One World One Family Cup 2025' showcases the power of sport to bring people together, transcending boundaries and celebrating the spirit of unity.

Sports Bulletin ReportKARACHI: Rameez Aziz struck an unbeaten century to help State Bank of Pakistan post 314 for five in 90 overs against Eshaal Associates on day one of the sixth round match of the President’s Trophy Grade-I on Friday. SNGPL’s Kashif Ali and KRL’s Jawad Ali bagged five-fers against HEC and Ghani Glass, respectively.At UBL Sports Complex, batting first, HEC were bundled out for 179 in 43.4 overs against SNGPL. Mohammad Mohsin Khan top-scored for the side with 37. In turn, SNGPL were 100 for seven in 29 overs when stumps were drawn. HEC’s Maaz Khurram was the pick of the bowlers, bagging three wickets for 34.At KCCA Stadium, Ghani Glass on the back of Junaid Ali’s 116 managed to score 390 for nine in 91.2 overs, when stumps were drawn. Junaid’s innings included 20 boundaries, which came off 148 balls. Pakistan Test captain Shan Masood was the other notable run-getter with a 60-ball 67, which included 12 fours. KRL’s Jawad Ali grabbed five wickets for 115 runs, while Mohammad Qaisar took three wickets for 60.Rameez Aziz’ eighth first-class century (135 not out, 180b, 21x4s) and half-centuries by Test batters Fawad Alam (59, 141b, 5x4s) and Imran Butt (55, 91b, 6x4s) lifted SBP to 314 for five in 90 overs against Eshaal Associates at SBP Sports Complex. For Eshaal Associates, Jalat Khan and Nisar Ahmed took two wickets each.At Rashid Latif Cricket Academy Ground in Karachi, PTV, on the back of half-centuries by Waqar Hussain (78, 103b, 6x4s, 3x6s), Muhammad Shahzad (74, 74b, 8x4s, 2x6s) and Mohammad Taha (59, 97b, 7x4s) managed to score 375 for six in 90 overs. For WAPDA, captain Khalid Usman was the most successful bowler, taking four wickets for 124 in 31 overs.Scores in brief:Day 1 of 4Higher Education Commission vs Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited at UBL Sports Complex, KarachiHEC 179 all out, 43.4 overs (Mohammad Mohsin Khan 37, Abdullah Fazal 29; Kashif Ali 5-56, Mohammad Salman 2-30, Bilawal Bhatti 2-31)SNGPL 100-7, 29 overs (Abid Ali 30, Saif Ullah Bangash 26, Qasim Akram 23 not out; Maaz Khurram Amin 3-34, Waseem Akram Jnr 2-20, Muhammad Azab 2-42)Khan Research Laboratories vs Ghani Glass at KCCA Stadium, KarachiGhani Glass 390-9, 91.2 overs (Junaid Ali 116, Shan Masood 67, Noman Ali 49, Kashif Ali 46; Jawad Ali 5-115, Mohammad Qaisar 3-60)State Bank of Pakistan vs Eshaal Associates at SBP Sports Complex, KarachiSBP 314-5, 90 overs (Rameez Aziz 135 not out, Fawad Alam 59, Imran Butt 55; Nisar Ahmed 2-69, Jalat Khan 2-74)Pakistan Television vs Water and Power Development Authority at Rashid Latif Cricket Academy Ground, KarachiPTV 375-6, 90 overs (Waqar Hussain 78, Mohammad Shahzad 74, Mohammad Taha 59, Shamyl Hussain 42; Khalid Usman 4-124).